Nevada County Fiber
Summary
SCH Number
2025060271
Public Agency
Nevada County
Document Title
Nevada County Fiber
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
6/6/2025
Document Description
Nevada County Fiber Inc is a community-focused entity that is building an open-access underground fiber optic network. They have successfully completed two Nevada County Last-Mile Broadband Grant for 27 homes and a State of California 28 homes. Nevada County Fiber was granted a fourth State of California Grant for 215 homes in August 2024. Once fully established the long-term vision is evaluate a transition to a community owned and operated resource to expand affordable open access fiber optic internet to remote rural areas of Nevada County. Additionally, there is an opportunity to provide assistance and support to similar communities in adjacent counties who have a similar need to improve broadband access
Contact Information
Name
Brian Foss
Agency Name
Nevada County Planning Department
Job Title
Planning Director
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Name
Andrew Wilkinson
Agency Name
Nevada County Fiber
Job Title
President
Contact Types
Project Applicant
Phone
Email
Location
Counties
Nevada
Regions
Unincorporated
Cross Streets
Banner Lava Cap
Zip
95945
Total Acres
less than 1 acre
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
15304
Reasons for Exemption
The construction techniques selected will ensure that the surfaces are easily restored to maintain local water quality and reduce stormwater runoff. For a narrow trench, the surface is compacted with a rubber track or wheel. For horizontal boring the entry and exit pits will be suitably compacted. If wet weather is imminent straw or re-spreading duff will be utilized to reduce any erosion. For slopes, addition protection may be used such as fiber rolls to shorten slope length, intercept runoff, reduce runoff velocity, and remove sediment. Construction will not occur during periods of expected heavy rain or snow. Existing conduits that may be present on parcels where fiber optic broadband is needed will be used in every available circumstance. Conduit routes will be selected to avoid existing utilities, and minimize road crossings, and steep grades.
The project activity will not result in the taking of endangered, rare, or threatened plants or animal’s species or significant erosion or sedimentation of surface waters. No significant vegetation or trees will be removed as part of the project construction. The project is not expected to cross any watercourses. The trenching and boring activities will not create any adverse impacts to any natural resources given the minor nature of the project and the construction techniques being used.
County Clerk
Nevada
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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